Marketplace Morning Report for Wednesday, May 21, 2008

A Senate committee will be asking oil executives directly today why the price of oil per barrel has risen so high. Dan Grech reports that congressional representatives may be answered with not much more than a shrug.

If you're looking for a new investment venture, how about $4,500 for a pair of rare Nikes? Stephen Hoffman reports it's not uncommon for some collectors to spend thousands of dollars on high-value kicks.

Congress votes today on a bill that would renew billions of dollars in tax breaks for clean energy. Sam Eaton reports the money is needed, despite a record amount of investments from the private sector.

A slow economy means a drop in retail sales. Jeff Tyler reports consumers are putting off buying that extra blouse or sport jacket if they can, but shoppers at high-end stores will help that market do slightly better.

Italian Prime Minister Silvia Berlusconi is holding a cabinet meeting in Naples to show concern for the garbage problem. Scott Jagow talks to reporter Megan Williams about what he can do to help the problem.

We're starting to get a better explanation of why banks invested in those atrocious mortgage-backed securities. Stephen Beard reports a glitch with triple-A ratings could have been partially responsible.